In a remarkable display of human intellect, solar power has emerged as a groundbreaking solution, tapping into the limitless energy of the sun. Solar power is being harnessed in numerous countries, with both large-scale solar farms and smaller installations on residential and commercial buildings.
It’s no different in Bangladesh, solar power has been deployed in commercial and residential purpose as well. Now for the first time in the country, a fish farm showed a classic example of the food-energy nexus.
Located in the Chapainawabganj district, 302 KM away from the capital, the solar fish farm represents a significant stride in the nation’s solar energy expansion efforts. Spanning an impressive area of 22,000 square meters, the Joules Nawab Floating solar plant project features multiple solar panels mounted on specially designed floating platforms within a human-made pond.
This innovative initiative enables the production of clean energy while utilizing previously dedicated fish farming water bodies. With the successful integration of floating solar panels, electricity generation occurs without compromising the existing fish farming activities. The implementation of this solar fish farm project aligns with Bangladesh’s commitment to meeting sustainable development goals and combating climate change.
Recently connected to the national grid, the floating solar power plant boasts a production capacity of 2.30 megawatts, marking a significant milestone in expanding the country’s solar energy portfolio. The venture required an investment of approximately 1.5 million U.S. dollars and utilizes equipment from renowned Chinese and German firms. The floaters, provided by Chinese Sungrow, are combined with solar panels from Chinese JA Solar and inverters from German SMA Solar Technology.
Nasrul Hamid, the Bangladeshi State Minister for Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources, took to social media to announce the plant’s integration into the national grid. Hamid expressed enthusiasm over the successful combination of fish farming and electricity generation, highlighting the authorities’ commitment to closely monitoring the reservoir’s ecosystem. Should the project prove environmentally sustainable, similar initiatives are expected to be implemented across various reservoirs nationwide.
Md Mizanur Rahman, an engineer for Joules Power Ltd. (JPL), emphasized the collaborative nature of the project, stating that the company partnered with Nawab Auto Rice Mill to establish the floating solar power plant. With a capacity of 800 kilowatts, the floating plant supplements additional solar panels installed on rooftops. The electricity generated from the plant is primarily consumed by Nawab Auto Rice Mill, with any excess power being fed into the national grid.
Careful consideration is being given to the impact on fish, given the primary purpose of the reservoir being fish farming. According to Abdul Momin, an administrative officer of Nawab Group, which operates 50 ponds for fish farming, initial observations and analyses show no detrimental effects on the fish or the environment caused by the floating solar panels.
This milestone in sustainable energy production and aquaculture showcases Bangladesh’s commitment to a greener future. By leveraging the power of the sun and effectively harmonizing it with fish farming practices, this sets a precedent for others seeking innovative and eco-friendly solutions to meet their energy needs.
